Food Benefits Set to Cease for 41 Million Amid Prolonged US Government Shutdown
USDA officials announced recently that nutrition assistance payments from a major federal social assistance programs are not going out during the coming month amid the persistent government funding lapse.
Shutdown Extends Through Its Third Week
The funding lapse lasted its 25th day as officials revealed the news, which followed appeals by more than two hundred House Democrats pushing the department to utilize emergency reserves to cover next month's benefits.
“Bottom line, funds are depleted,” the department confirmed. “At this time, no payments will be distributed” on 1 November.
Widespread Impact
Tens of millions of people rely on these monthly payments, according to the USDA. In certain states, including New Mexico, dependence on the program is as high as 21% of residents.
A memo obtained by a major news agency revealed that USDA officials decided against using reserve funds for the upcoming payments.
Political Stalemate
Congressional leaders remain deadlocked over how to fund and reopen federal agencies.
A statement from the head of a prominent policy organization indicated that the administration had chances to take earlier action to avoid interruption in payments.
“It could have, and should have acted earlier to make arrangements to utilize available money,” the remarks concluded. “Instead, they might decide against it in an effort to gain political advantage” while GOP lawmakers attempt to influence Democratic senators to approve a spending bill that would reopen government operations.
Emergency Measures
State leaders from multiple regions activated emergency protocols in recent days to free up resources for hunger relief in anticipation of food benefits expiring during the upcoming period.
